DEGIS - German Association for International Students

Background

Overview

DEGIS, the German Association for International Students, is a non-profit organization established in 2019 by Alex Ruthemeier, Tim Meyer, and Dominic Otto. The founders, previously partners in Expatrio, recognized the need for a community that connects international students across Germany. DEGIS aims to build the largest community for international students and talent in Germany, offering a platform for exchange through events, networking opportunities, and support services.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To support every international student and talent in Germany to achieve their dreams and goals.

Long-term Vision: To be the largest community for international students and talent in Germany.

Core Values

Diversity

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Global Perspective

Inclusion

Sustainability

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

DEGIS focuses on connecting international students and talent across Germany, providing support before and during their stay. The organization aims to enhance the international student experience by offering a space for exchange, organizing events, and connecting students with the German job market.

Areas of Specialization

Community Building: Establishing City Chapters in over 50 locations across Germany to foster local networks.

Support Services: Offering workshops, volunteering opportunities, and a Buddy Program to assist international students in their transition to Germany.

Career Development: Providing access to internships, job opportunities, and professional coaching to facilitate career growth.

Key Technologies Utilized

DEGIS leverages digital platforms for event management, communication, and resource sharing. The organization utilizes social media channels to engage with members and promote events. Additionally, DEGIS offers a free online course, the Germany Starterpack for Students, to help international students navigate life in Germany.

Primary Markets Targeted

DEGIS primarily targets international students and talent residing in Germany, aiming to support their academic, social, and professional integration into German society.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

DEGIS is a non-profit organization that receives support from its sister company, Expatrio GmbH, which covers basic operational costs and provides infrastructure. The organization is exploring additional funding options to diversify its sources of sustainability.

Total Funds Raised

Specific details regarding the total funds raised by DEGIS are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit, DEGIS does not have traditional investors. Its primary support comes from Expatrio GmbH.

Utilization of Capital

The capital is utilized to support DEGIS's mission, including organizing events, providing support services, and maintaining City Chapters across Germany.

Pipeline Development

As a non-profit organization, DEGIS does not have a product pipeline. Instead, it focuses on developing and expanding its community and support services for international students in Germany.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

DEGIS offers a free online course, the Germany Starterpack for Students, to help international students navigate life in Germany.

Significant Scientific Methods

DEGIS employs digital platforms for event management, communication, and resource sharing. The organization utilizes social media channels to engage with members and promote events.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Alex Ruthemeier: Co-founder and Entrepreneur.

Tim Meyer: Co-founder and Entrepreneur.

Dominic Otto: Co-founder and Entrepreneur.

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

The founders of DEGIS have backgrounds in entrepreneurship and have previously co-founded Expatrio, a platform offering services for internationals in Germany. Their experience in supporting international students and talent has been instrumental in establishing and growing DEGIS.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Germany is a popular destination for international students, offering tuition-free education and a diverse cultural experience. The market for supporting international students is competitive, with various organizations and institutions providing services to assist students in their academic and social integration.

Competitor Analysis

DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): A government-funded organization that promotes international academic exchange and offers scholarships and support services to international students.

MyGermanUniversity: An EdTech company providing a comprehensive database of English-taught bachelor's and master's degree programs in Germany, assisting international students in finding suitable programs.

IAESTE Germany: An international, non-political organization that mediates internships for students in over 85 countries, including Germany.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

DEGIS collaborates with various organizations to enhance its offerings, including Expatrio GmbH, which provides operational support. The organization also partners with universities and businesses to offer career opportunities and support services to international students.

Operational Insights

DEGIS differentiates itself by focusing on community building and providing a comprehensive support system for international students, including City Chapters, a Buddy Program, and career development resources. This holistic approach sets DEGIS apart from competitors that may focus on specific aspects of student support.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

DEGIS aims to expand its community by establishing more City Chapters across Germany, enhancing its support services, and fostering partnerships with educational institutions and businesses to provide more opportunities for international students.

Future Business Directions

The organization plans to diversify its funding sources to ensure sustainability and continue to offer valuable services to its members.

Opportunities for Expansion

DEGIS has the opportunity to collaborate with more universities and businesses to offer internships, job opportunities, and professional coaching, further supporting the career development of international students.

Positioning for Future Objectives

By focusing on community building, support services, and strategic partnerships, DEGIS is well-positioned to achieve its vision of being the largest community for international students and talent in Germany.